Manchester United were linked with a move for the Barcelona midfielder Frenkie De Jong at the start of the season.
However, the Dutchman was not keen on leaving the Spanish club and he ended up staying at Barcelona. Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed to CaughtOffside that Erik ten Hag would love to sign the Dutch international midfielder at the end of the season.
It remains to be seen whether Manchester United can succeed in their pursuit of the 25-year-old this summer. Apparently, the player is still keen on staying at Barcelona.
“Erik ten Hag loves Frenkie de Jong, we know that very well,” Romano said.
“It’s normal he’d love to have Frenkie at Man United but I always mention the same thing since last June: it’s on Frenkie to decide his future, and at the moment he has not told Barca that he wants to leave. He’s happy in Barcelona and so there are no changes at this stage.”
De Jong is undoubtedly one of the best midfield is in the Spanish league. and he remains a target for Manchester United. The Red Devils desperately need someone like him who can control the tempo of the game and add creativity to the midfield.
Furthermore, the Barcelona midfielder is excellent when it comes to playing against the press, and Manchester United missed someone like him during their 7-0 humiliation against Liverpool on Sunday. The Manchester United midfielders struggled to cope with the intensity and pressing from Liverpool, and they need someone who can bypass the pressing and help set up transitions.
The Manchester United manager worked with the Barcelona star during their time together at Ajax. And it remains to be seen whether he can convince De Jong to move to Old Trafford at the end of the season.
Manchester United are well positioned to finish in the top four and secure Champions League qualification. They have the financial resources to tempt Barcelona and the player as well.
The Red Devils will have to bring in a quality playmaker like him if they want to challenge for major trophies next season. De Jong is entering his peak years and he could get better with experience and coaching. There is no doubt that it would be a sensational signing for Manchester United if they can pull it off.
